Guide to Residency in the UAE

Obtaining a residency visa in the UAE is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in the UAE gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Determine the Type of Residency Visa You Need
  • Employment Visa: Sponsored by your employer if you have a job in the UAE.
  • Investor Visa: If you're investing in a business in the UAE.
  • Student Visa: If you're studying in the UAE.
  • Family Visa: If you're joining a family member who is a resident.
  • Retirement Visa: For retirees over the age of 55 who meet certain criteria.
• Prepare the Necessary Documentation
  • Passport with at least six months' validity.
  • Passport-sized photographs.
  • Entry permit issued by the UAE authorities.
  • Proof of your employment, investment, or family ties in the UAE.
  • Health insurance coverage.
  • Medical fitness test results from an authorized health center in the UAE.
  • Emirates ID application.
• Apply for an Entry Permit
  • Visit the official Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) website: ICA Entry Permit Services.
  • Choose the appropriate entry permit based on your visa type.
  • Fill out the application form and submit it along with the required documents.
  • Pay the applicable fees.
• Enter the UAE on the Entry Permit
• Undergo a Medical Fitness Test
  • Locate an authorized health center: Dubai Health Authority Medical Fitness.
  • Schedule an appointment for the medical fitness test.
  • Attend the appointment and complete the necessary tests.
• Apply for an Emirates ID
  • Visit the official Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) website: ICA ID Card Services.
  • Fill out the application form for an Emirates ID.
  • Submit the required documents, including fingerprints and a personal photo.
  • Pay the applicable fees.
• Apply for a Residency Visa
  • Visit the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) website or use the GDRFA mobile app.
  • Fill out the residency visa application form.
  • Attach the required documents, including your entry permit, medical fitness test results, and Emirates ID application proof.
  • Pay the visa issuance fees.
• Complete the Residency Visa Stamping Process
  • Once your residency visa is approved, submit your passport to have the visa stamped.
  • Collect your passport with the residency visa stamp.
• Collect Your Emirates ID
  • After your residency visa is stamped, your Emirates ID will be processed.
  • You will receive an SMS notification when your Emirates ID is ready for collection.
  • Collect your Emirates ID from the post office or the designated collection point.
• Register for the UAE Tax System (if applicable)
  • Visit the official Federal Tax Authority (FTA) website: Federal Tax Authority.
  • Check if you are required to register for VAT or Excise Tax.
  • Complete the online registration form if applicable.
  • Submit the required documents and information.
  • Receive your Tax Registration Number (TRN).

Please note that the above steps are a general guide and the process may vary depending on your specific circumstances and any changes to the UAE's immigration policies. It is always best to consult with the UAE embassy or consulate in your country or seek advice from a legal professional or immigration consultant for the most current and personalized guidance.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in UAE?

"In order to obtain a visa to the UAE, applicants must submit a valid passport, a completed visa application form, and a passport-sized photograph. Depending on the type of visa, additional documents may be required. Once the application is approved, the visa will be issued and sent to the applicant. In order to apply for residency in the UAE, applicants must first obtain a valid residence visa. This can be done by submitting a valid passport, a completed visa application form, and a passport-sized photograph. Depending on the type of visa, additional documents may be required. Once the application is approved, the residence visa will be issued and sent to the applicant. After receiving the residence visa, applicants must then register with the local immigration office and obtain a residence permit. This process requires applicants to submit additional documents such as proof of employment, proof of address, and proof of financial stability. Once the application is approved, the residence permit will be issued and sent to the applicant," commented one member living in the UAE.

"Not if not all are on work visas but you can get a residency with property purchase. Also, you may register in the free zones as well. Looking at 5-20k for the right to live there," mentioned one expat living in the UAE.

"In order to get a residency visa, you need to be sponsored, either by an individual, or most commonly, by your employer. The employer will apply for the residency visa on your behalf. You will have to have a medical examination and police clearance etc..," said an expat in the UAE.